WOW, what a wonderful night we had last Friday down at Turnbridge Working Men’s Club!

Our reputed Reindeer Race Night that is, compered, almost impeccably, by the fairy from the top of the Christmas tree, with able assistance from elves Izy and Ben Simpson.

The gates opened at 19.00 hours, horses were bought, bets placed, races run and prizes handed out.

All in, an atmosphere of festive cheer and jollity was accompanied by a super supper.

A huge ‘thank you’ to all who came along and helped make the night such a success, and to Huddersfield Giants and other sponsors for providing the prizes.

We must also thank the following individuals for their help in organising the race night – Helen and Chris Simpson for pulling a couple of rabbits out of the hat, James and Liz Atherton for sheer dedication, Brendan Callaghan reindeer maker extraordinary, Paul Hulin for music and the tote, Mick Beevers for his work on the tote, and Howard Taylor and Paul Roberts for their help on the night. Here’s to the Reindeer Race Night 2013, see you all there!

We were all excited to see the full squad list – a solid mixture of youth and experience, a mega-pack with established players well augmented by new signings, slippery established backs who’ve had time to learn to play together, and the exciting golden triangle of Danny Brough, Luke Robinson and Shaun Lunt.

The coaching team of Paul Anderson, Kieron Purtill and Chris Thorman are three totally dedicated individuals who have been working hard to bond the players, set boundaries and inculcate a strong work ethic.

This, combined with the recent army-training trip, has created a hugely positive outlook amongst the players.

We can all feel the excitement rising just at the thought of the approaching season, and we’re sure it’ll be worth every penny of investment in a season ticket.

Our next speaker is Danny Lockwood, the publisher and driving force behind League Weekly, and a man with plenty of tales to tell. Come and hear him on Tuesday, January 8, 2013 (7.30) at Turnbridge Working Men’s Club, where there is plenty off parking.

Then there’s our start-of-season meal on Friday, January 25 at the Marimonte, Viaduct Street.

Membership application can be made is available on our website http://www.giantssupporters.co.uk . If you have any questions about the HGSA contact bogumila.callaghan@ntlworld.com or call 07414270760.

Don’t forget the Giant Panto on Tuesday, January 15, a real treat for all. It’s Cinderella this year. What antics will the players be up to this time?